After a three-year hiatus, the Jeep Cherokee is poised for its return in 2026, marking a significant strategic move for Stellantis to re-enter the highly competitive compact crossover SUV segment. This comeback aims to avoid the strategic missteps of historical automotive industry examples, like Ford's Model T replacement, by introducing a thoroughly redesigned and re-engineered model on the versatile STLA Large platform. The belated arrival is also positioned to capitalize on a shifting societal and regulatory environment, potentially giving the new Cherokee a more favorable market entry than an earlier release might have achieved.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee introduces a design language that makes a clean break from its predecessor, drawing heavily on the iconic XJ-generation Cherokee. Design leader Vince Galante aimed for a "Hip 2B Square" aesthetic, incorporating the boxiness of the original Dick Teague-designed model as much as aerodynamic constraints allowed. Key design elements include a squared-off seven-slot grille flanked by U-shaped daytime running lights reminiscent of the XJ's rectangular sealed-beams. It features XJ-ish trapezoidal wheel arches for its standard 18-inch and optional 20-inch wheels, and horizontal taillamps that evoke Jeep’s jerrycan look. The upright D-pillar, embellished with a Germanic Hofmeister kink, not only pays homage to its heritage but also directly addresses a major complaint of the outgoing KL Cherokee: insufficient cargo room, which sees a substantial 25 percent increase.

The transition from Fiat-Chrysler’s Compact-Wide platform to Stellantis’ STLA Large platform results in a significantly larger vehicle. The 2026 Cherokee stretches 6.1 inches in overall length with a 6.5-inch longer wheelbase, making it one of the largest in its compact class, bordering on midsize. Its width increases by 1.5 inches, while height drops by 0.3 inches, optimizing its proportions. Nearly every interior dimension improves, enhancing its competitiveness within the segment. The larger platform also accommodates big in-floor batteries, supporting the brand’s future electrification goals. Upper trim levels, like the Overland, boast elevated material quality, including fancy perforation patterns on seat inserts, and offer an "Arctic" interior color scheme in top three trims.

At launch, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee will be exclusively offered with an all-new hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a two-motor planetary combiner hybrid system, storing power in a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery positioned under the rear passenger compartment. Notably, Stellantis is utilizing technology originally patented by Toyota and made royalty-free through 2030. The powertrain delivers a net total output of 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. While the engine alone produces 177 hp and 221 lb-ft, the combined system offers a compelling balance of power and efficiency. This setup ensures a 3,500-pound tow capacity, falling just 500 pounds short of the previous 2.0L turbo model, while dramatically improving fuel economy. Estimated EPA ratings are an impressive 42 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined, translating to an estimated range of 507 miles on its 13.7-gallon tank.

All-wheel drive is standard on the 2026 Cherokee, featuring Active Drive 1, which utilizes a power takeoff from the transverse hybrid powertrain to drive the rear axle on demand. This system disconnects when not needed to save fuel and automatically re-engages for greater traction, preventing front–rear binding with clutch slippage rather than a center differential. Available modes include Auto, Sand, Snow, and Mud, with a front–rear torque split varying from 100/0 to 50/50. While no Trailhawk off-road version will be available at launch, one is anticipated to follow. The initial model offers an 8.0-inch minimum ground clearance, a 19.6-degree approach angle, and a best-in-class 29.4-degree departure angle, demonstrating solid off-road capabilities even in its mainstream hybrid configuration.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee will be offered in several trim levels: Base, Laredo, Limited, and Overland. Pricing starts at $36,995 for the Base model, $39,995 for the Laredo, $42,495 for the Limited, and $45,995 for the range-topping Overland. The two higher trims, Limited and Overland, will go on sale late 2025, with the Base and Laredo following in early 2026. This pricing positions the Cherokee at the higher end of the compact hybrid SUV segment, notably more expensive than base models of key competitors such as the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE AWD ($2,945 more), the Kia Sportage S Hybrid ($2,960 cheaper), and in some configurations, even the Honda CR-V Hybrid. Jeep appears to be banking on pent-up demand and its standard mechanical AWD to justify the premium pricing, contrasting with rivals that often offer cheaper non-hybrid options or lower-priced hybrid trims. While the new Cherokee is not the cheapest, it offers a compelling package for those seeking a highly capable and efficient compact SUV.